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PBBM declares non-working holiday in Occidental Mindoro, non-working days in various municipalities

11 November 2024


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued Republic Act No. 12055, declaring every November 15th of every year as a special non-working holiday in the province of Occidental Mindoro in commemoration of its foundation anniversary.

“November 15 of every year is hereby declared a special non-working holiday in the Province of Oriental Mindoro to be known as “Araw ng Oriental Mindoro, in commemoration of its foundation anniversary,” stated RA No.12055 signed by the President on October 31, 2024.

The Act will take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

The Palace also issued proclamations declaring special non-working days in various municipalities in the country.

These include: San Jose, Batangas on Dec. 11, 2024 (Proclamation No. 731); Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Dec. 13 (Proclamation No. 735); Malvar, Batangas, Dec. 16 (Proclamation No. 736); and Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte, Dec. 23 (Proclamation No. 737.)

Proclamations were also issued for Dumingag, Zamboanga Del Sur, declaring Dec. 27 as “Araw ng Dumingag” (Proclamation No. 732) and Vintar, Ilocos Norte, Dec. 4, for Vintar Day (Proclamation No. 734).

President Marcos also issued Proclamation No. 733, declaring Nov. 23, as a special non-working day in Angono, Rizal to celebrate the Higantes Festival, and Proclamation No. 738 for Bayawan, Negros Oriental on Dec. 23, to mark its 24th Charter Anniversary.

All proclamations will allow residents full opportunity to enjoy and participate in these significant local celebrations. | PND

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PBBM: PH, US relations won’t change with Trump’s victory

11 November 2024


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed confidence that the Philippines’ strong partnership with the United States will endure following the election of President-elect Donald Trump.

“I don’t think it will change. The global forces that are our oldest treaty partner, that doesn’t change,” President Marcos said when asked to comment on US-Philippine relations with Trump’s win.

“So, I will have to see if there is a major change, but I don’t think so. I don’t think so,” he added.

President Marcos earlier congratulated Trump following his victory in the recent election as he expressed optimism for a more fruitful and dynamic partnership between the Philippines and the US.

The Philippines and the US have a strong record of cooperation in areas including defense and security, trade and investment, food and energy security, renewable energy, climate action, digital transformation, infrastructure development, and humanitarian assistance. | PND

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PBBM to newly signed laws on maritime zones: It serves its purpose

11 November 2024


How China reacted to the recently enacted laws defining the sovereignty of the Philippines over its waters does not come as a surprise, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Monday.

“Well, it’s not unexpected but we have to define closely … marami tayong sinasabi that we have to protect our sovereign rights and our sovereignty. So, it serves a purpose that we define closely what those boundaries are, and that’s what we are doing,” President Marcos said.

The President made the remarks on the Seatrade Cruise (STC) Asia 2024 Welcome Reception in Parañaque City when asked to comment on China’s apparent disgust on the newly-signed laws as it allegedly worsen the situation in the West Philippine Sea.

President Marcos said the newly signed measures — Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act – will serve its purpose to reinforce the Philippines’ entitlement and responsibility within its maritime zones.

The Philippine Maritime Zones Act declares the Philippines’ maritime zones in accordance with the standards set by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

It also seeks to designate the country’s archipelagic sea lanes, which would create routes over the country’s waters and airspace.

The Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, on the other hand, establishes a system of archipelagic sea lanes and air routes, through which foreign vessels and aircraft shall exercise the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage. | PND

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PBBM to typhoon-weary Pinoys: Gov’t ready for Typhoon ‘Nika’, other storms

11 November 2024


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured typhoon-weary Filipinos that both the local and national governments are fully mobilized to protect their safety and welfare.

On the sidelines of the Seatrade Cruise (STC) Asia 2024 Welcome Reception in Parañaque City on Monday evening, President Marcos said government response teams are on the ground, clearing roads and preparing to deliver relief where it’s needed most.

“Kahit na may bagyo, kahit na malakas ang hangin nasa labas sila dahil kaya pa naman. Kaya pa naman daw. They can still work to clear trees that fell. ‘Yung mga poste na nahulog para may daanan ang mga relief goods natin,” President Marcos said.

He said the government, through the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and other agencies, is monitoring Severe Tropical Storm Nika, which weakened, but continues to affect Ilocos Sur and surrounding areas.

The government has prepositioned equipment and relief supplies, ready to respond as soon as conditions allow, he said. “We are now monitoring what’s happening,” President Marcos said.

“We’ve done the usual standard procedure where we have sent, prepositioned our equipment and our relief goods. And we will just have to see where the areas are that will be particularly hit,” he added.

The President said all relevant government agencies “continue to prepare” for the two other expected typhoons, and is exhausting all remedies available to ensure the safety and welfare of Filipinos.

President Marcos said the government is also looking at damages caused by typhoons to ensure immediate assistance. He called on Filipinos to listen to LGUs.

“As soon as the government can come in, we will come in. Your local government is there – is ready to be the first responders as they always are and the national government will come in as soon as we can,” he said.

“In fact, we’re already there and they’re just waiting for the storm to allow them to get to work,” he added.

In its latest bulletin, PAGASA raised varying signal warnings across Luzon, including Signal No. 3 in the Southern Portion of Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, the northern portion of Benguet, the southern portion of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur.

Signal Number 2 has been hoisted in the southwestern portion of Cagayan, the eastern portion of Isabela, the northern portion of Quirino, the northern portion of Nueva Vizcaya, La Union, the rest of Ilocos Norte, the rest of Apayao, and the rest of Benguet.

Pangasinan, the rest of Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, the rest of Isabela, the rest of Quirino, the rest of Nueva Vizcaya, Tarlac, the northern and central portions of Zambales, Nueva Ecija, and Aurora are under signal number 1. | PND

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PBBM seeks stronger gov’t partnership with cruise industry

11 November 2024


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on the cruise tourism industry to strengthen its collaboration with the government.

The President extended the invitation during his speech at the Seatrade Cruise (STC) Asia 2024 in Parañaque City on Monday.

“To the distinguished representatives of cruise lines, esteemed industry leaders, and valued partners, the Philippines extends a warm and earnest invitation to you to deepen our partnerships—founded on the principles of shared success and mutual aspiration,” the President said.

The event provided an opportunity to forge stronger alliances, exchange insights, and build lasting connections that could transcend borders and benefit the industry for years to come, according to the President.

“May your participation in the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 be productive and enriching, and may the collaborations we foster here today chart a transformative course for our region’s cruise industry,” President Marcos said.

The President emphasized the country’s commitment, alongside its regional partners, to “playing a constructive role in this evolving industry.”

“We are focused on strengthening infrastructure, forging meaningful partnerships, and ensuring that both the cruise industry and local communities will flourish,” President Marcos said.

The President elaborated the government’s efforts extend beyond improving ports and destinations to also include the preservation of cultural and environmental assets.

He said the goal is to create an industry that benefits not only cruise lines and their members, but also the local communities and travelers seeking to explore the diverse culture of the Philippines.

“With your collaboration and commitment, we are establishing ourselves as a hub for cruise tourism—a destination where innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth converge,” the President said. | PND

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PBBM proud of PH awards in hosting cruise tours

11 November 2024


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed his elation on the global recognition earned by the Philippines in hosting cruise tours.

“Last year, we took pride at being recognized as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination and as well at the World Cruise Awards and as well this year, we are recognized as the Best Port of Call at the Asia Cruise Awards,” President Marcos said during the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 at the Okada Manila in Parañaque City.

The President said the recognition underscored what is at store for the country in its potential and future development as a global cruise hub.

“These accolades are affirmations of our collective vision—one shared by the Department of Tourism, the Philippine Ports Authority, and our local communities—to elevate the Philippines as a premier cruise destination worthy of global recognition,” he said.

This year’s gathering presents an opportunity to the Philippines to shape the future of its cruise tourism in a way that brings lasting benefits to all, the President said.

The Philippines, in collaboration with its regional partners, is also committed to playing a constructive role in the evolving cruise tourism industry.

Government efforts also go beyond improving ports and destinations. It’s also working to preserve the cultural and environmental assets that make them distinctive.

“The Philippines has long been a gateway to the rich history and culture of Southeast Asia. Now, with your collaboration and commitment, we establish ourselves as a hub for cruise tourism—a destination where innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth converge,” the President said.

“Our goal does not end at welcoming more ships; we aim to create meaningful, lasting connections between travelers and our country. We strive for each cruise call to be a chance for passengers to step into our story, taste the richness of our cuisine, dance to the rhythms of our traditions, and carry beautiful memories of the Philippines back with them.”

Last year, the Philippines welcomed 125 cruise calls across more than 30 destinations. There are currently 109 cruise calls lined up for 2024, with other confirmed schedules extending up to 2027. | PND

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Vibrant PH cruise tourism to bring inclusive growth — PBBM

11 November 2024


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday welcomed cruise lines industry leaders and other government partners joining the Seatrade Cruise (STC) Asia 2024.

Speaking at the gathering at Okada Manila in Paranaque City, President Marcos said he expects a more vibrant cruise tourism in the country that could bring lasting benefits to all.

The President said the Philippines last year welcomed more than 100 cruise calls across multiple destinations, showing the increasing industry confidence on the country’s capabilities.

He said the Philippines anticipates 109 calls for 2024, with other confirmed schedules extending to 2027.

“Yet, numbers alone do not tell the full story,” the President said. “What truly matters is the promise behind those numbers—the promise that each ship docking here brings a wave of opportunities for local economies, for artisans, for communities.”

“The journey ahead will require all of us to work very hard together, with dedication, foresight, and with purpose. As we continue to move forward with the same vision and determination that have brought us here today, I have no doubt that the Philippines will succeed in the global cruise tourism industry.”

The government’s goal is to build an industry that benefits everyone: the cruise lines and its crew members, the local communities, and the travelers who seek to explore the rich diversity of the cultures.

By streamlining operations, enhancing efficiencies, and focusing on sustainable practices, President Marcos said the country aims to ensure that the cruise industry grows in practical and inclusive way.

To achieve this goal, the government is strengthening infrastructure, forging meaningful partnerships, and ensuring that both the cruise industry and local communities flourish.

“In line with our National Tourism Development Plan of 2023 to 2028, we have worked diligently to modernize our ports, enhance guest experiences, and streamline entry processes,” the President pointed out.

“The recently launched Cruise Visa Waiver Program is just one example of how we are transforming our policies to welcome visitors with open arms and with open doors,” he added.

Other government efforts include Executive Order No. 55, s. 2024, launching the Maritime Industry Authority’s (MARINA) Blockchain-Enabled Certification System, enacting the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, and commencing the development of Ladderized Maritime Education and Training.

The STC Asia 2024 focuses on expanding Asia’s potential as a cruise tourism destination and market by bringing together global and regional stakeholders including itinerary planners, port agents, cruise associations, cruise line executives, and government officials to discuss growth, challenges, and opportunities in the cruise and maritime industries.

The event is being hosted by the Philippines with the Department of Tourism as the lead agency. | PND

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Exemplary youth honored at ‘You Have The Power’ campus caravan

11 November 2024


The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) concluded the nationwide “You Have The Power” campus caravan on Monday, recognizing outstanding youth for their talents, creativity, and achievements.

The award ceremony, held at Citadines Bay City Manila, Pasay City, celebrated young achievers from various educational institutions who participated in the government-led caravan.

The event, titled “You Have The Power: Unleash Your Inner Hero,” honored students for their contributions to raising awareness about energy efficiency and conservation, encouraging youth to become advocates for sustainable practices in their communities.

“These winners are shining examples of what can happen when we harness our talents. They remind us that each of us has a unique contribution to make,” Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said in his keynote message during the event.

“Creativity is not just about art or music. It’s about thinking outside the box, developing new ideas, and collaborating with others. When we come together, pooling our skills and perspectives, we become a force for change.”

DOE Director Patrick T. Aquino said the event underscores how creativity can drive progress.

When people harness their talents and collaborate, they become a united front for progress, he said, telling the audience, “Together, let us unleash our inner superheroes, recognizing that each of us has the power to contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future.”

PCO Assistant Secretary Patricia Kayle Martin emphasized the importance of using one’s power for meaningful change.

“Today is not just about awareness. It’s about igniting real action. The conversations we’ve had and the stories shared are only the beginning. They are the spark. The real change comes from what you do next,” said Martin.

PCO Director Faith De Guia said true energy sustainability means meeting people’s current energy needs without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.

“When you speak up for cleaner energy, advocate for policies that prioritize sustainability, and lead by example, you aren’t just conserving energy. You’re building a legacy,” she said.

Comic strip winners included first placer Jhon Menard P. Pamonag (City College of San Jose Del Monte); Sheena P. Fiedacan (Batangas State University – The National Engineering University), 2nd place; Jan Daniella A. Belnas (Cagayan State University), 3rd place; and Francis Louis S. Rafisura – Liceo de Cagayan University), 4th place.

For animation, the winners were Bianca B. Suyo (Benilde Senior High School (DLS-CSB), 1st place; Rica Darell C. Espineda (Lyceum of the Philippines Laguna), 2nd place; Keisha Kristel B. Sales (De La Salle Lipa), 3rd place; and Kurt Nicolas S. Gaviola (City College of San Jose Del Monte), 4th place.

Short film winners were Shamira A. Espiritu (Laguna State Polytechnic University Siniloan Campus), 1st place; Jan Audrey C. Panaligan, Rodjen Jossh C. Pillado (Lirio M. Escaño National High School), 2nd place; Keith Andrei B. Manalang (Holy Cross College), 3rd place; and Wyna Ella L. Laxamana, Gabriel Josef E. Lacsa, Kelsie G. Salvador, Lein Angela H. Arciga (Pampanga High School), 4th place. | PND

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Gov’t contractors’ role amid calamities retold

11 November 2024


The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) reiterated yesterday President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for private contractors with government contracts to mobilize their resources in anticipation of upcoming emergencies.

“Iyong mga private contractors na may kontrata sa gobyerno – DOTr, DPWH – dapat naka-preposition na din,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez told reporters in Malacañang on Monday.

Chavez referred to President Marcos’ order to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prepare as three more typhoons are expected to enter the country.

He said the Office of the President (OP) has also instructed the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to issue directives on suspending classes and work if the President’s office is unable to do so.

Chavez also assured the government has enough resources. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has confirmed that ample funding is in place for disaster response efforts. | PND

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PBBM signs laws for separation of school extensions

11 November 2024


President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed several laws separating various school extensions and converting them into independent institutions.

Under Republic Act No. 12057, the Paulino Dari National High School (PDNHS) – Balong-balong Extension in Pitogo, Zamboanga Del Sur will be separated from the PDNHS and established as an independent school, to be named as Balong-balong National High School.

Similarly, RA No. 12058 mandates the separation of Bacungan National High School-Sipakong Extension in Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga Del Norte, which will be renamed Sipakong National High School.

Republic Act No. 12059 provides for the separation of Lapuyan NHS-Sampang Extension in Lapuyan, Zamboanga Del Sur, which will now be called Pampang NHS.

According to the three RAs, the creation of the new and independent NHS shall absorb all of their personnel, assets, liabilities, and records.

The initial funding of these schools shall be charged against its former institutions’ current year appropriation. Thereafter, the amount necessary for the continued operation of the school shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA).

The President also issued RA 12060, establishing Tiblawan NHS in Davao Oriental. The funding of which shall be included in the annual national budget.

The Secretary of the Department of Education is directed by the Chief Executive to immediately include the operationalization of the four schools in the Department’s program.

“Within 90 days from the approval of this Act, the Secretary of Education shall formulate the rules and regulations implementing the provisions of this Act. Such implementing rules and regulations shall provide for the school’s organization, administration, operations and management, in accordance with RA 9155, or the “Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001”, RA 10533, or the “Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013″and other basic education-related laws,” the Acts stated.

All the RAs were signed by President Marcos on October 31, 2024 and shall take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. | PND